Country capitalism

Have you seen that store in Arden Fair Mall called Country Clutter? What a bizarre moniker. I find it hard to imagine anyone would see the sign and think, “That’s what I need! More clutter!” and walk on in. But the store seems to be thriving, which proves I know nothing about human nature and its unquenchable thirst for wooden Uncle Sam lawn ornaments, coat racks stenciled with apples, and salt and pepper shakers shaped like geese. It seems as though the further our lives drift from nature, the more we feel compelled to buy country-styled tchotchkes in an effort to recapture “the simple life.” If you’ve been possessed by this drive, the Country Folk Art Craft Show at Cal Expo is for you. Artisans will display their wares in four buildings for your shopping pleasure on Friday from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission is $5-$6. Your hand stamp will readmit you all three days (but you’ll have to be careful not to wash your hand all weekend). Call (248) 634-4151 or visit www.CountryFolkArt.com for more information.